A week ago, it seemed all but certain that Derek Jeter would be in the New York Yankees Opening Day lineup. But on Wednesday morning, those hopes could be in jeopardy.
Jeter was given an anti-inflammatory cortisone injection on Wednesday morning, to help with the stiffness and soreness he has been dealing with from his surgically repaired ankle. Yankees GM Brian Cashman is being cautious with Jeter when it comes to Opening Day, saying it's not a serious setback but there is a possibility he may need to start the year on the disabled list.
I just can't rule it out. We've got to do what's right for him. Whatever is right for him, it will be right for us.
Jeter was not in the lineup on Tuesday when the Yankees played the Phillies, and then sat out again on Wednesday as the Yankees shut out the rival Red Sox. New York has not issued an Opening Day lineup without Jeter since 2001, when he missed the opener with a strained quadriceps.
In the event that Jeter is a no-go for Opening Day, Eduardo Nunez would assume shortstop duties until he is ready to go.
The Yankees have already been plagued by a number of injuries this spring, as Curtis Granderson and Mark Teixeira will both miss at least the first month of action. Alex Rodriguez will be out until the All-Star break as he recovers from off-season hip surgery.
For more information, check out the MLB Examiner on Facebook as well as follow along on Twitter.
Comments